Bunga Bunga, Battersea

Things are going to get silly. You know this when you walk in, the music is pumping and the good looking barmen are shaking cocktails whilst wearing straw hats. The crowd in Bunga Bunga is beautiful in the way that only Battersea can do – Mulberry handbags strewn the floor and signet rings aplenty. Get ready to let loose, it’s practically compulsory.

The Order

Not just a watering hole for well-heeled West Londoners, the food here is actually very good. Portions are big so share a Caprese salad, then surrender to carbicide (trust us, you’ll need to line your stomach) and share one of their excellent pizzas like the playfully named Julius Cheeser – Gorgonzola, Taleggio, Mozzarella & Goat’s Cheese. Share a bottle of red or rose – Italian if possible, in keeping with the decor. Skip dessert and get in another round of cocktails- the Super Mario is a must have.

The Game

A bold first date and/or one for the fun seekers. Meet there, telling them you’ll be at the bar. Have your first drinks on the high stools, leaning in as the music gets louder. Move to a table when moderately tipsy, setting your intentions with a light touch or guiding hand. Take a while over dinner, pretending not to notice the strength of your drinks or the generosity of the wine carafes. Watch the night unfold around you, joining in if you wish or slinking off in a taxi back to theirs.